Stand By Me - Single/LP Version - Ben E. King
"Stand By Me" by Ben E. King is a timeless classic that was released as a single and on his LP in 1961. The song is known for its soulful and heartfelt lyrics that speak to the idea of loyalty, support, and unity in times of trouble. The theme of the song revolves around the importance of standing by someone you love and care about, no matter what challenges or obstacles may come their way. The composition of "Stand By Me" is characterized by its simple yet powerful melody, with King's smooth and soulful vocals shining through. The song features a memorable bassline and a catchy chorus that is easy to sing along to. The instrumentation is minimalistic, allowing King's vocals to take center stage and convey the emotion and sincerity of the lyrics. One notable fact about "Stand By Me" is its lasting impact and influence in the music industry. The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years and has been featured in various films, TV shows, and commercials. In 2015, the song was even inducted into the National Recording Registry by the Library of Congress for its cultural significance and enduring popularity. Overall, "Stand By Me" is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with listeners of all ages, reminding us of the power of love, loyalty, and standing by those we care about.
Ben E. King
Ben E. King, born Benjamin Earl Nelson on September 28, 1938, in Henderson, North Carolina, was an American soul and R&B singer. He is best known for his smooth, velvety voice and timeless hits such as "Stand by Me" and "Spanish Harlem." King's family moved to Harlem, New York, when he was a child, and he began singing in church choirs and doo-wop groups. In the late 1950s, he joined a group called The Five Crowns, which later became The Drifters. While with The Drifters, King recorded some of his most iconic songs, including "There Goes My Baby" and "Save the Last Dance for Me." In 1960, King left The Drifters to pursue a solo career. That same year, he released his first solo single, "Spanish Harlem," which became a hit and established him as a solo artist. However, it was his 1961 single "Stand by Me" that solidified his status as a music legend. The song reached number 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and has since become a classic, covered by countless artists and featured in movies and TV shows. Throughout his career, King continued to release successful singles, including "I (Who Have Nothing)" and "Supernatural Thing." He also collaborated with other artists, such as The Average White Band on the hit song "A Star in the Ghetto." Ben E. King's impact on music is undeniable. His soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics have inspired generations of musicians and fans alike. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of The Drifters in 1988 and as a solo artist in 2015. His music continues to be celebrated and cherished by audiences around the world. Sadly, Ben E. King passed away on April 30, 2015, but his music lives on as a testament to his talent and legacy in the world of soul and R&B.